Park Information
Regardless of its comparatively small size, the sanctuary functions as one of the major watersheds benefiting downstream districts from its two main rivers and numerous lakes
- Location: Far east of the country
- Total Area: 740.60 km2
Faunal and Floral Diversity
Faunal and floral diversity under the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary (SWS)
Species of mammals
25
species of birds
200
species of reptiles
0
species of fish
0
species of plants
600
species of butterflies
700
Risk and Threats
Grazing pressure from the demand of a high livestock population
Construction of farm roads
Another upcoming threat is caused by clearing the strip of pristine habitat for the construction of farm roads to connect the two areas of Merak and Sakteng
Hydro-power construction
The Gamri River that meanders through the sanctuary has been identified as one of the potential river to harness water energy.The risk of losing a huge proportion of habitat to this construction in the near future is foreseen.
SWS's Future with Bhutan for Life
An eco-tourism project implemented
Degraded lands within SWS mapped and restored with climate-smart mechanisms
Eco-lodges and eco-treks designed and developed
Watersheds in SWS fully protected and effectively managed by 2030
Park communities implement climate-smart organic agriculture and alternative energies
Forest quality and extent is maintained
New nature-based local enterprises implemented
SWS equipped with adequate and competent staff as well as essential equipment and infrastructure
Inhabitants
people reside inside the Parks
4000
Livelihoods
The primary source of livelihood for the residents is livestock rearing yaks, sheep, and Dzoe and Dzoms (hybrid of yak and cow)
Residents are primarily farmers who mainly on agriculture for livelihood
Camping and Trekking Sites
Popular Trekking Routes
The Merak-Sakteng loop trail is the longest trekking route inside the sanctuary aside from a short birding and orchid trail near a camping site at Joenkhar
Major Projects
Bringing light to one of the highest communities of Himalayas.
Management Plan
This conservation management plan describes in details the importance of the park in ensuring biological continuity and ecosystem integrity, human communities and economic status; experiences and challenges, achievements from the past conservation management plan, threats and strategic actions for next 10 years. This plan also includes implementation work plans with budget outlay, monitoring, and evaluation approach for the planned activities.